Stone carving is an ancient art form that has been practiced for millennia, requiring both skill and specialized tools. Traditionally, sculptors rely on a combination of manual tools and techniques to transform raw stone into intricate works of art.

The most fundamental tools include:

1. Chisels – Available in various shapes (point, tooth, flat), chisels are used to remove large sections of stone and refine details.

2. Hammer and Point – A steel point chisel struck with a mallet breaks away rough stone in the initial stages.

3. Rasps and Rifflers – These abrasive tools smooth and shape the surface after coarse carving.

4. Bush Hammer – A textured hammer creates a rough finish or adds decorative patterns.

5. Abrasives – Sandpaper or polishing stones give the sculpture a smooth, refined surface.

Techniques vary based on the stone type (marble, limestone, granite) and desired effect. The "direct carving" method involves working freehand, while "pointing" uses a measuring system to replicate a model. Mastery of these tools and methods allows sculptors to bring stone to life with precision and artistry.